Ascension (The Summoner’s Circle, #2) by A.M. Saint: A Journey of Power, Love, and Heartbreak
I was eagerly awaiting Ascension after the gripping experience that was Evocation, and let me tell you, A.M. Saint has truly outdone herself with this second installment in The Summoner’s Circle series. If you’ve ever found yourself captivated by a character’s relentless quest for power and knowledge—while wrestling with their deeply human flaws—then Rhys’s story is going to grip you tighter than a spellbound chain.
Picking up directly after the events of Evocation, Ascension thrusts us back into Rhys’s chaotic world. Zephyr noted how Rhys, now a High Priest, seemingly has it all—married life with his wife and the love of his boyfriend. Still, there’s this insatiable part of him that craves more. At the heart of it, Saint brilliantly explores the theme of ambition and the heavy burden it can impose. I’m usually cautious when diving into tales of ambitious characters, often struggling to empathize with their motivations. But Rhys broke that mold for me. His drive to prove himself is palpable, evoking a mix of admiration and heartbreak as we witness his unraveling. It’s a classic narrative of “heavy is the head that wears the crown,” and I found myself wrestling with the urge to protect him, while simultaneously cheering for his relentless pursuit.
Saint’s character work shines brightly, breathing life into Rhys in a way that truly made me fall for him. Then there’s David—the real MVP of Ascension. His journey, mapped out with grace and grit, continues to evolve and resonate with readers. How can you not root for a guy who’s trying so hard to be a good person, yet is painfully aware of his flaws? His growth in this book is heartwarming, especially as he learns to navigate a relationship with Rhys, filled with both obstacles and monumental love.
And oh, Moira! If David softens, Moira is unapologetically fierce. Watching her embrace her power more fully in this installment is thrilling. I stumbled upon moments that made me nearly shout in delight—you can truly sense the well of untapped potential she holds. My excitement for her forthcoming book knows no bounds!
The relationships between the three central characters are beautifully complex, fluctuating between tenderness and tension. Their polycule and the depth of their love for one another is striking, showcasing the beauty of how people can grow alongside each other, even amid extraordinary challenges. Rhys and David’s determination to grow from past mistakes wrenched at my heartstrings—yes, long live the polycule indeed!
Secondary characters also shine, and the introduction of figures like Antoni and Max added new dimensions to the story—albeit with a dash of intrigue that kept me on my toes.
Saint’s writing is simply scrumptious; the pacing is impeccable, engaging from start to finish. The plot arcs seamlessly, interwoven with rich descriptions and emotional resonance that had me turning pages long into the night. Honestly, what a delightful ride!
All in all, Ascension is a remarkable continuation of Rhys’s journey, filled with stellar character work, an engaging plot, and magic that leaves you spellbound. I’d recommend this to anyone who cherishes character-driven narratives, intricate relationships, and a sprinkling of romance. Do yourself a favor and pick this up—you might just find your heart ensnared in its pages.
5/5 🌟
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